Overview
OVERVIEW OF THE LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU
Lares trek to Machu Picchu tour is an alternative to visiting Machu Picchu, a unique Inca trail through the Andes, surrounded by incredible landscapes, lagoons, mountains, animals, etc. That will make you live a fantastic experience, let yourself be carried away by this great adventure, and conquer the Andes
The 4 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is perfect for those seeking solitude, stunning landscapes, and an intimate glimpse into local communities. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a group, this trek offers a unique and immersive experience on the way to Machu Picchu.
DAY 1: CUSCO – PUMAHUANCA – PUYOC
The adventure will begin through the Pumahuanca town in the Sacred Valley of the Incas walking until the town of Puyoc. This day you will observe an archeological site and typical mammals such as the Andean fox and the vizcacha.
Overnight in Puyuc Town.
DAY 2: PUYOC – YANACOCHA – CUNCANI
On this day, you will have a light walk, and you will pass near mountains and have a stunning view from the Sicllakasa pass, then as you descend you’ll see some lakes until you reach Cuncani. There, you will learn about the daily life and traditions of the villagers.
Overnight in Cuncani Town.
DAY 3: CUNCANI – LARES HOT SPRINGS – AGUAS CALIENTES
This day will be special because after walking a short trail from Cuncani you will visit the Lares hot springs in the Lares Valley, and later ha a road until you board the train in Ollantaytambo towards Aguas Calientes.
Overnight in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Early in the morning, you will go by bus to Machu Picchu and then have a guided tour of 2 hrs approx., after that you will return to Aguas Calientes where you can have lunch, later you will board the train that will take you to Ollantaytambo from where our representative will take you to your hotel in Cusco.
End of our services.
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is available in private service and shared service, depending on availability.
itinerary
DAY 1: CUSCO – PUMAHUANCA – PUYOC
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Lares trek to Machu Picchu, beginning with a convenient pick-up from your hotel. From there, we’ll journey in our private transport to the charming village of Pumahuanca (3,150 meters/10,334 feet) in the breathtaking Sacred Valley, where our hike commences.
Our ascent takes us to the tranquil village of Puyoc (4,300 meters/14,108 feet), but not before a fascinating visit to the Archaeological Site of Callorumiyoq (3,600 meters/11,811 feet). Along the way, you’ll discover the rich diversity of native plants, flowers, and birds that flourish in this region. As the Lares trek is a hidden gem, we’ll savor the serenity of the untouched surroundings, with the possibility of spotting the elusive vizcachas (a rabbit-like creature resembling a chinchilla) and perhaps even an Andean fox.
Our evening camp will be set in the peaceful and remote village of Puyoc, where the high altitude (4,300 meters/14,108 feet) creates a stark but captivating landscape. During the dry season, it’s not uncommon to witness a light dusting of snow, so be sure to bundle up with gloves and hats for a cozy night under the stars.
Overnight in Puyuc Town.
- Difficulty: 4 out of 5 /Moderate to Challenging.
- Distance: 11 km approximately.
- Walking Time: Around 6 – 7 hrs approximately.
- Meals: Lunch, and Dinner + snack and tea.
- Min. Elevation: 3, 150 m / 10, 334 ft.
- Max. Elevation: 4, 300 m / 14, 108 ft.
DAY 2: PUYOC – YANACOCHA – CUNCANI
This day promises to be the most breathtaking of the Lares trek, and it’s also a gentler hike compared to the previous day. We’ll descend from Puyoc to the village of Cuncani (3,800 meters/12,464 feet), passing through the open Sicllakasa (4,830 meters/15,846 feet), where you’ll be treated to stunning views of the majestic Pumahuanca Mountain (5,330 meters/17,486 feet). Along the way, we’ll also pass by the serene Yanacocha Lake (4,500 meters/12,476 feet) as we make our way to Cuncani.
Upon arrival in Cuncani, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the local people, who proudly wear their traditional clothing. If time allows, they may even teach us a few words in Quechua, offering a deeper connection to the culture of this beautiful region.
Overnight in Cuncani Town.
- Difficulty: 4 out of 5 /Moderate to Challenging.
- Distance: 12 km approximately.
- Walking Time: Around 7 – 8 hrs approximately.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner + snack and tea.
- Min. Elevation: 3, 800 m / 12, 467 ft.
- Max. Elevation: 4, 830 m / 15, 846 ft.
DAY 3: CUNCANI – LARES HOT SPRINGS – AGUAS CALIENTES
This is the day you’ve been eagerly awaiting on the Lares trek in Peru. We’ll begin with a hearty breakfast before visiting a local family’s home, where we’ll engage in cultural exchanges and learn a few Quechua phrases.
After departing Cuncani, we’ll make our way to the soothing hot springs of Lares (3,200 meters/10,498 feet). Along the route, we’ll pass through several small communities, offering a glimpse into local life as we see villagers cultivating crops like Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) and Tarwi (Lupinus mutabilis).
Once we arrive at the hot springs, you’ll have the option to unwind in the warm, therapeutic waters (admission is optional and at your own expense). Afterward, our private transport will whisk us back to the Sacred Valley. From Ollantaytambo, we’ll board a train to Machu Picchu, setting the stage for the next chapter of our incredible journey.
Overnight in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Difficulty: 3 out of 5 /Moderate.
- Distance: 7 km approximately.
- Walking Time: Around 3 – 4 hrs approximately.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner + snack and tea.
- Min. Elevation: 2, 050 m / 6, 725 ft.
- Max. Elevation: 3, 800 m / 12, 467 ft.
DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
We’ll start the day bright and early with breakfast before catching the first bus to Machu Picchu (2,400 meters/7,873 feet) to be among the first to enter the legendary citadel.
You’ll enjoy a guided tour lasting approximately two hours, where you’ll explore the most significant areas of the Inka citadel and delve into the fascinating history of the Inkas. After the tour, you’ll have the option to ascend Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (if you have the necessary permits and entrance tickets) for an even more breathtaking view.
In the afternoon, we’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo and then continue by private transport to Cusco, marking the end of your incredible Lares Trek adventure.
Overnight is Cusco City on your own.
- Difficulty: 2 out of 5 /Easy.
- Distance: 10 km approximately.
- Walking Time: Around 2 hrs approximately.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Min. Elevation: 2, 050 m / 6, 571 ft.
- Max. Elevation: 3, 350 m / 10, 990 ft.
TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT:
- You must consider that it will be necessary to line up to board the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes depending on the high or low season. Our guide can give you suggestions on how to do your time properly.
- Visit Machu Picchu is governed by a circuit programmed in only one direction with no option to return. From January 1, 2019, there is no re-entry to Machu Picchu, re-entry is only possible if your ticket includes Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, so it is recommended to go to the Inti Punku or Inca bridge, before starting your tour guided by Machu Picchu with prior coordination with your tour guide.
- Trains are subject to availability depending on the anticipated time of reservation or season.
ADDITIONAL:
- If your train schedule allows, we recommend visiting the Chavez Ballòn Museum, which is the Machu Picchu! site museum, from noon, admission is free, to enter you must only show your passport.
- Another place you can visit is the Butterfly House, where you can appreciate the growth stages of a butterfly from being a cocoon to an adult butterfly. The entry price is S /. 10.00.
END OF OUR SERVICES.
Include
IT INCLUDES:
- Transfer Cusco – train station of Ollantaytambo.
- Professional guide (English and Spanish).
- Assistant guide (groups larger than 8 passengers).
- Transfer from your hotel to the start of the trek.
- Transfer from the end of the trek to Ollantaytambo.
- Transfer Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
- 03 breakfasts, 03 lunches, 03 afternoon snaks and 03 dinners. VEGETARIAN OPTION.
- Water (except for the first 04 hours of trekking).
- Camping equipment: Inflatable mattresses or mattresses (Therm A Rest or Rei), spacious EUREKA tents (02 people per tent).
- Kitchen equipment and expert chefs.
- Dining tent with tables and chairs.
- Mules for transport of kitchen and camping equipment and up to 7 kilos of your personal items.
- EXPEDITION OR VOYAGER Train Ticket: Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo.
- 01 night hotel in Aguas Calientes (Golden Sunrise Hotel).
- Bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu. Circuit 2.
- First aid kit.
- Oxygen.
- Agency Services.
IT DOESN’T INCLUDE:
- Walking sticks (20.00 USD).
- Sleeping bag (20.00 USD.
- Breakfast on Day 1, lunch and dinner Day 4.
- Phone calls.
- Any other service not mentioned.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips.
OPTIONAL
- Entrance ticket for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: an additional 65.00 USD per person (Needs to be booked several months in advance).
packing list
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE TOUR:
- Bring your passport or identity document (DNI) (the same with which the reservation was made).
- Wear trekking shoes.
- Bring waterproof jacket / rain poncho.
- Bring warm jacket.
- Wear T-shirts (quick dry)
- Wear comfortable trekking pants, shorts.
- Bring hat and gloves.
- Bring extra cash (Soles).
- Bring a 70 L backpack, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.
- Bring your camera and extra batteries.
- It is only allowed to carry 7 kilos of luggage on the train.
- Book your tickets to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in advance.
- Bring personal medications
- Bring a bottle of water and snacks.
- Bring toiletries amd hand sanitizer
- Bring flashlight with extra batteries
FAQS
DO YOU NEED ANY PERMISSION TO DO THE LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?
No, you do not need a permit or a Tourist Ticket for the Lares trek itself, as it is an independent route. However, if you plan to visit the Citadel of Machu Picchu at the end of the trek, make sure to book your Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu in advance.
IS CAMPING EQUIPMENT REQUIRED FOR THE LARES TREK?
No, it is not necessary. Kantu Peru Tours provides all the required equipment, including camping tents, sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses or mats, and kitchen equipment.
WHO WILL CARRY THE CAMPING EQUIPMENT ON THE LARES TREK?
During the trek, a team of muleteers and horses will transport the camping equipment, food, first aid supplies, and other necessary items. They will also carry your personal belongings, with a maximum weight allowance of 7 kg per person.
WHERE CAN I KEEP MY LUGGAGE THAT I DO NOT NEED FOR THE LARES VALLEY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?
If you have luggage that you don’t need for the Lares Trek, you can store it at your hotel in Cusco, as most hotels offer this service free of charge. If your hotel does not provide this service, Inkayni Peru Tours will safely store your luggage at their office.
WHAT IS THE SITUATION OF TOILETS AT THE CAMPSITES DURING THE LARES TREK?
During the Lares Trek, especially on the first and second days, there are no permanent toilet facilities at the campsites. To address this, portable toilet tents will be provided for your convenience. On the third day, you will have access to toilets at the thermal baths in Lares, and on the fourth day, you will find facilities in Aguas Calientes.
IS THERE ELECTRICITY DURING THE LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?
Electricity is not available during most of the trek, so bring extra batteries or a portable charger. On the second night, near Cuncani, you can access electricity for an extra cost. Electricity is also available on the final night in Aguas Calientes.
WILL I HAVE ACCESS TO CLEAN DRINKING WATER?
Safe drinking water is usually provided or can be treated with purification tablets. Always follow guide instructions regarding water sources.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR THE 4 DAY LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?
Acclimate to high altitude in Cusco, train for physical endurance, and ensure you have the appropriate gear and vaccinations. Follow any additional advice from your tour operator.
WHAT HAPPENS IN CASE OF BAD WEATHER OR TRAIL CLOSURES?
In adverse weather conditions or if trails are closed, the tour operator may adjust the itinerary or provide alternative arrangements. Flexibility and understanding are key.
HOW DO I GET FROM OLLANTAYTAMBO TO CUSCO AFTER THE TREK?
After taking the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, our representative will transport you back to Cusco.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I NEED MEDICAL ATTENTION DURING THE TREK?
Guides are trained in first aid and can provide initial care. For serious issues, evacuation procedures are in place, but it’s important to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
WHY BOOK WITH KANTU PERU TOURS?
- Kantu Peru Tours is a Cusco travel agency that operates all the packages directly. We don’t give commissions to travel agencies or other third parties that inflate the costs.
- The staff that works with us are professional and responsible. Before they start working with Katu Peru Tours, we have a training course about customer service.
- We have all the tourist permissions and certificates, granted by the Municipality of Cusco, and the Minister of Peru (DICETUR – MINCETUR), which guarantees us to operate in Cusco and the sacred valley of Machu Picchu.
- Our Customers are our best guarantee. You can see and read our customer’s reviews. Click HEREÂ
- If you want to get more information you can contact 👉 HERE 👈
Tour Price
“Ask first for availability, tickets are usually sold out at least 3 months in advance, otherwise we can not ensure availability”
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| REGULAR SERVICE | Before: $669.00 USD
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| Per Group 7 to + Persons | Before: $580.00 USD
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Per Group of 14 or more, ask for it with the Kantu Peru Tours Booking Department.
For further information about the best destinations in Peru, check out our Kantu Blog.
If you want to take this tour, you can also include it in your Machu Picchu Package. Just ask your Kantu Peru Tours travel agent.
